A POPULAR market supervisor who has worked for Darlington Council for more than 20 years has retired.

Frank Hutchinson, 60, supervised the indoor and outdoor markets in the town and was a well-known member of the council's staff.

He joined Darlington Borough Council in 1977 and worked in various departments, including looking after North Lodge Park.

Mr Hutchinson began working in the markets in 1980, helping stallholders, giving advice to traders and ensuring the smooth running of both markets.

A council spokeswoman said: "He has been a really popular person with the traders and market staff. Everyone is going to miss him. He will be taking happy memories with him."

More than 60 council staff turned up to give Mr Hutchinson a good send-off at his leaving party in Hogan's pub, in Victoria Road, Darlington.

Staff had a collection and bought him a portable television.

Indoor market traders also gave him a cash gift, and staff at the tourist information centre presented him with a glass tankard.